Politics is good theatre at the best of times, and today is one of those days. The appearance of Nazim Gillani — CEO of Strategic Investments and one of the key players in the ongoing Rahim Jaffer/busty hookers/steakhouse political scandal — in front of a House of Commons committee has led to some of the best sound bites uttered on Parliament Hill.
To wit, a sampling:

“I had a guy who would handle it so I wouldn’t have to. What a wonderful deal.” —Gillani

“Anybody that knows Mr. Jaffer knows that he doesn’t really have any influence over policymakers.” —Gillani

“You didn’t know much about the Lobbying Act, but how are you on the Criminal Code?” —NDP MP Pat Martin

“”I have never seen Mr. Jaffer use cocaine, in possession of cocaine, or speak of cocaine.” —Gillani

“We feel we were lied to at the last committee, and it puts us in a foul mood, frankly.” —Martin

“If I do this again, I’ll check references and make sure they have good standing with the government.” —Gillani

“It was an enthusiastic statement. I regret it deeply …It’s got nothing to do with Mr. Jaffer. It’s my words.” —Gillani on the email at the heart of the scandal, in which he claimed Jaffer could open up the doors to the Prime Minister’s Office

“If anyone should be punished, it’s me.” —Gillani

Martin: “Where did that rumour come from?” Gillani: “Same place every rumour came from: Mr. Snowdy.”

“It’s an absolute lie. 100% absolute lie.” —Gillani

“If he’s a private investigator, you’d think he would have some proof, wouldn’t you? That’s his business.” —Gillani

“Mr. Jaffer sat where you’re sitting now and lied his ass off to us.” —Martin